CS/HB 7097 - State Group Insurance Program

• Authorizes the state group insurance program to offer health plans in tiered benefit levels (Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze) beginning in the 2018 plan year with specified actuarial values ranging from 60% to 90%.

• Permits employees to use excess state contributions (when the state's contribution exceeds the premium cost) for flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, additional benefits, or salary increases starting in the 2018 plan year.

• Requires the Department of Management Services to contract with at least one entity providing comprehensive pricing and inclusive services for surgeries and medical procedures, and establishes a 3-year price transparency pilot project in 1-3 areas of the state.

• Directs the department to hire an independent benefits consultant to assess trends, analyze the state group insurance program, and provide recommendations for modifications.

• Establishes specific employee, early retiree, and Medicare participant premium contributions for the 2016 plan year, varying by plan type (HMO, PPO, Capital Health Plan) and coverage level.

• Appropriates $151,216 in recurring funds and $507,546 in nonrecurring funds, authorizes 2 full-time equivalent positions, effective July 1, 2015.